If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. 2 Cor 5:17
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These pages are designed to aid study or investigation for Christian discipleship through individual Bible study, Cell groups, Home groups, or meeting one to one. The questions could be used alone allowing each person to use their own Bible.
Introduction
We live in a materialistic world that denies the existence of anything that cannot be observed physically. Jesus teaches of a spiritual realm and spent much time dealing with the unseen agents of that realm. We live in the same world and can be hindered in life if we are not equipped to deal with the enemy.
Bible Zone
- There is an enemy - God is not the only unseen power, the devil is at work.
- Jesus has overcome the enemy - the devil is already defeated, yet still active.
- Act defensively - We are told to stand our ground.
- Wear God’s Armour - God has given spiritual armour for our defence.
- Spiritual offence - Some are invited to join the Lord in His attack on the enemy.
Jesus describes the devil as a murderer. Here Peter tells us the attitude with which he wishes to kill, and the means we have of resisting him. 1 Peter 5:8-11
- How does the enemy operate?
- How can the devil be overcome?
- What does it mean to stand firm in faith?
1 Peter 5:8-11 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters* all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.
When Jesus died on the cross His death achieved much beyond paying for our sins. Hebrews 2:14-15
- What is the natural state of people without Christ?
- What did Jesus’ death do to the devil’s work?
Hebrews 2:14-15 14 Because God's children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had* the power of death.15 Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.
The Devil, although his end is certain, is still active. He still gives serious injury. We cannot presume that since Jesus has overcome the enemy, he can be ignored. Ephesians 6:10-13 explains our defence.
- What were the Christians advised to do in this passage?
- What does it mean to be strong in the Lord?
- Paul writes that the fight is not against people. What alternative is there to fighting people when they fight against us?
- What is the result of our defence?
Ephesians 6:10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.11 Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.12 For we* are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
13 Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.
We are instructed to put on God’s full armour. Paul goes on to describe this armour Ephesians 6:14-18. Each element is symbolic of an aspect of our lives as Christians.
- Identify each element of armour and consider what it is equated to.
- For each item consider -
- What is the purpose of the item of armour in a battle?
- Reflect on what the item symbolises. How does what is symbolised help us in the spiritual battle?
- The need for this item implies a form of attack by the enemy - what?
- Is there anything you need to do in your life to put on this item?
Ephesians 6:14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness.15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.*16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.*17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.*
Spiritual Offence
Spiritual Warfare that is on the offensive comes from heaven. It is seen in the interaction between the Father (LORD) and Jesus (Lord). We as part of the body of Christ may be invited by the Father to participate in Jesus’ role.
- Who is it that gains the victory?
- What is gained in the victory?
- What is gained by sitting with someone such that sitting with the Father would be so important in this process?
- What do you think it means to sit with the Father?
- When does sitting with the Father end?
Psalm 110: 1 The LORD said to my Lord, "Sit in the place of honor at my right hand until I humble your enemies, making them a footstool under your feet."
2 The LORD will extend your powerful kingdom from Jerusalem*; you will rule over your enemies.
3 When you go to war, your people will serve you willingly.
You are arrayed in holy garments, and your strength will be renewed each day like the morning dew.
SPIRITUAL WARFARE
